Diabetes mellitus: A common disease with potentially severe consequences

WHAT IS DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a disease in which the metabolism of sugar is impaired.¹

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that develops slowly and is characterized by abnormally elevated blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes mellitus develops when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or the body cannot use insulin effectively to convert blood sugar into energy (insulin resistance). To normalize high blood glucose levels, switching to a healthier diet and increasing exercise can help, but in many cases, this is not enough. ¹

Thanks to ongoing research and development of new compounds, numerous medications are now available to lower blood glucose levels. As MSD, we are proud that our long-standing research program has helped to make an important and innovative contribution to the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, and lower extremity amputation. 5